What is a common side effect of thiazolidinediones such as rosiglitazone?

Thiazolidinediones, including rosiglitazone, are known to cause a common side effect of fluid retention. This occurs due to their mechanism of action, which enhances the sensitivity of muscle and fat tissues to insulin and modifies the activity of fat cells. This increased sensitivity can lead to a retention of sodium and water, resulting in edema, and in some cases, congestive heart failure in susceptible individuals.

While other options such as hypoglycemia, weight loss, and bone density loss may be associated with various diabetes medications, they are not typical side effects of thiazolidinediones. In fact, hypoglycemia is less commonly associated with these agents since they do not stimulate insulin secretion directly. Weight loss is also contrary to the effects seen with thiazolidinediones, as these medications often lead to weight gain, likely due to the fluid retention and other metabolic changes they induce. Bone density loss has been noted as a concern, particularly in certain populations, but fluid retention remains one of the most frequently observed and clinically relevant side effects attributed to the use of this class of medication.